AP Literature and Composition

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!

2009-05-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's this time of year AGAIN! Congratulations to all of you, and best of luck for next year. This is an exciting time and a time of big transition.

I want you all to know that although I wasn't with you the entire year, I REALLY enjoyed this years' AP class. Each of you are such unique and interesting people. AND you were such good sports during HAMLET!!!!

I would be interested in hearing about your future successes, accomplishments, etc. so please stay in touch. Also, it has been my privilege to write recommendations for several of you, and if I can be of help in any way down the road.....please let me know.

I enjoyed getting to know all 17 of you. Congratulations and have a great summer!!!!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Harl

HAMLET POSTED!

2009-04-30T11:25:00.000-07:00

Our version of Hamlet is posted at the following link:

http://www.evscicats.com/terry/classes/hamlet.html

I thought you were all awesome! (Especially considering we had NO IDEA what we were getting into when we started!)

The actors, editors, musicians, and camera people.......great job!

I'll include the link below under "Helpful Links."

There is still more to add, which I'll work on from home. Check back for updates.

Colten, are you still working on bloopers? Even a short version of that would be fun to add.

FINAL EXAMS

2009-04-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

Final exams are approaching. Your offical review day is Tuesday, May 12. Your final is on Thursday, May 14.

Although the offical review day is a couple of weeks away, I am working on your review now and hope to have it posted to my teacher web page (not the blog....the page found through the Reitz web site) by the end of the week.

If you'd like to get an early start, go to my teacher web page and print a review sheet over the weekend.

The exam will be 100 questions covering Oedipus, Death of a Salesman, R and G are Dead, The Stranger, and various literary terms.

The review will contain ALL of the final exam questions, so be sure to complete it! There won't be any surprises on the final.

Hope you are all getting excited about graduation!

BABY TIME!

2009-04-23T13:34:00.000-07:00

John Patrick Dimmett arrived on Tuesday, April 21. (We are still in the hospital because it was a surgery).

Here are a couple of photos. Mom and baby are doing great. Tired, but great.

Hope you are all doing well and coming along with your scrapbooks.

Expect a final exam review sometime next week. It will contain all of the final exam questions and quotes (only without the answer choices), just like first semester.

Also like first semester, the final will be all multiple choice, matching, or quote identification.

HOW DID HAMLET TURN OUT?

2009-04-20T19:34:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

I check into the hospital tomorrow for the week, so naturally I'm wondering about ..........Hamlet! What else????

How did it turn out? Have you all had a chance to watch it? Can anyone burn me a DVD? It seems like we spent A LOT of time on it, so I would love to see the end result and hear what you guys thought after seeing it (if indeed you've seen it!)

I'm very out of the loop, so fill me in. I need something to distract me when I'm up all night with a crying baby:)

Hope you all are doing well.

POETRY READINGS

2009-04-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

Don't forget that your main assignment now (besides creative projects due Thursday) are your poetry readings. These are worth 40 points, and you need to take plenty of time to prepare.

POETRY READING TIPS:

1. ALTHOUGH IT IS CONSIDERED A "READING," YOU NEED TO KNOW THE POEM (S) SO WELL THAT YOUR WRITTEN POEM IS ONLY THERE FOR AN EMERGENCY. You should not have your face plastered to the poem during your presentation. It's important to look at your audience.

2. USE YOUR CLASS TIME WISELY. You are being given class time to prepare, so if you bring other things to do or work on homework from other classes, Mr. Gladdish sees that you are not using your classtime to prepare. This is unacceptable. Use your class time wisely!

3. PRACTICE YOUR READING NUMEROUS TIMES! As you probably remember from the oral interp assignment or Hamlet project, it's one thing to feel prepared when your giving your reading in your room at home in front of NO ONE! It's another to perform in front of your classmates. Preparation will go a long way to solving this problem.

4. BE CREATIVE WITH PROPS, COSTUMES, VISUAL AND AUDIO AIDS, ETC. It's obvious when thought and effort is put into this, and your grade will reflect your effort. Also, your classmates will notice whether you've put effort into it or not. It's awkward to watch presenters that aren't prepared and don't have the proper materials.

5. PRINT YOUR OWN COPIES OF THE POEMS FOR YOUR READING. DON'T TRY TO USE THE ANTHOLOGY. IT'S A BIG, AWKWARD BOOK AND WILL GET IN THE WAY OF YOUR PRESENTATION.

6. AT THE BEGINNING OF YOUR READING, TELL THE CLASS THE NAME OF THE POEM, AUTHOR, AND PAGE NUMBER WHERE THE POEM CAN BE FOUND SO THEY CAN FOLLOW ALONG.

7. ALSO BEGIN YOUR READING WITH A THOROUGH EXPLANATION OF WHAT THE POEM IS ABOUT. This will help your audience understand your reading.

8. YOU ARE WELCOME TO POST ANY QUESTIONS HERE, BUT SINCE MR. GLADDISH IS DOING THE GRADING YOU DEFINITELY WANT TO DIRECT THE IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO HIM.

LITERARY ANALYSIS ASSIGNMENT

2009-04-13T11:57:00.000-07:00

Don't forget your literary analysis is due tomorrow.

Also, come prepared to sign up for you poems and work on your poetry readings......that means YOU MUST BRING YOUR ANTHOLOGIES TO CLASS!

Also, creative projects are due Thursday.

LATE ASSIGNMENTS!!!!!!

2009-04-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE NOT TURNED IN THE MOST RECENT LITERARY ANALYSIS AND TIMED WRITING.......THIS IS FOR YOU:

1). I am almost finished grading your literary analyses over either Oedipus or Death of a Salesman (whichever play you chose for your essay).

A couple of you HAVE NOT TURNED THEM IN! Once I record grades, you will see that a 0 out of 50 does bad things to your overall grade.

After I have the baby, I will not be grading any more essays. THEREFORE, if you want any sort of credit for this assignment, you must turn it in NO LATER THAN FRIDAY, APRIL 10. Sooner rather than later would be good. I could be on my way to the hospital any day now, and we are WAY past the due date for the essay, so don't wait to turn it in if you want some credit.

2). It has come to my attention that several of you were absent on the day of The Stranger timed writing (Friday before Spring Break). I am also grading those papers, and again......NO GRADING ONCE THE NEW PERSON ARRIVES! That means, you MUST MAKE THIS UP ASAP if you missed it.

You have enrichment this week, as well as workdays during 1st period so there's no reason this shouldn't be made up immediately. Don't forget that if you miss class, you are responsible for setting up a time to make up timed writings, quizzes, or anything else you missed! Don't make Mr. Gladdish chase you down.

Use your time wisely in class this week!

LITERARY ANALYSIS ASSIGNMENT

2009-04-03T08:38:00.000-07:00

I posted the handout detailing the literary analysis assignment you will work on next week. Mr. Gladdish will have a copy on Monday, but if any of you want to look at it or print it before then, you can go to my teacher web site.

1. Go to my teacher web page (click on the link on this blog, under "helpful links," that says "Reitz Web Page."

2. Click on "Faculty and Staff."

3. Click on "Teacher websites."

4. Click on my name and hit "go".

5. Click on "Courses."

6. Click on your course (English Lit CAP).

7. Click on the link that says "choice novel literary analysis assignment (2 page handout)."

Let me know if you have any trouble accessing the handout. Have a great weekend, and read those novels! Take notes as you go!

Wednesday, April 1--reminders and info

2009-04-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

***Mr. Gladdish said everyone worked hard on their scrapbooks yesterday. Keep up the good work! Don't forget that you must have 25 COMPLETE pages by the end of the period on Thursday.

***Also, creative projects are due in TWO WEEKS. Don't wait until the last minute!

***I will post info on the blog AND on my teacher website by the end of the week (Friday) about your literary analysis for your choice AP novel. I'll try to put something on my teacher site that you can print out and keep as your handout. You'll have all next week in class to work, but you'll probably need to work on the reading and writing outside of class as well.

***I will try to make it up to school next week sometime to return and go over graded papers. Don't be shocked when you see me!!!!! I'm three weeks away from my due date and this baby has seriously grown!!!! (I'm blaming it all on the baby, of course). I am scheduled to check in the hospital on April 21, so I'm hoping this child doesn't get ideas about showing up early. I'd like to be able to come and see the finished HAMLET!

***I have some photos of you all working on Hamlet in full costume that are pretty good. I will post those in the next couple of days.

***Hope you are all doing well! Can you believe graduation is almost here??? Is everyone ready?

SCRAPBOOKING AND READING DAY TOMORROW

2009-03-30T10:37:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to bring your scrapbooking materials AND your choice AP novel for tomorrow's class. You are receiving points (15 and 10 respectively) just for bringing these materials, so TAKE ADVANTAGE OF an easy 25 points just for bringing materials to work on.

7 of you (Tamara----it's time to choose one of those "leftovers":) ) still need to post your novel on the blog under the appropriate heading, "Choose your novel."

Also, don't forget that your creative projects are due on April 16 in 2.5 weeks! Enjoy the breathing room you are getting this grading period, and take advantage of the work time to get your best grade ever. Resist the temptation to slack because your workload is slightly easier.

BE SURE TO FOLLOW THE SCHEDULE FOR DUE DATES. YOU SHOULD CONSIDER THESE DATES VERY ACCURATE THIS NINE WEEKS SINCE WE AREN'T TRYING TO SQUEEZE IN NEARLY AS MUCH AS IN THE FIRST THREE GRADING PERIODS.

REMINDER

2009-03-29T17:28:00.000-07:00

A few of you have still not claimed your novel that is DUE TUESDAY IN CLASS! Please post which novel you will be reading ASAP.

Hope you had a great spring break and that you are all doing well!!!!!

HAPPY SPRING BREAK! (And FINISH YOUR BLOG POSTS)

2009-03-21T11:07:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone will have an enjoyable week!

A couple of reminders:

1. please claim your choice novel and purchase or check it out from the library over break.

2. If you haven't yet made your 4 discussion posts over the Stranger, please do so on the post below. I didn't put that as homework for Friday, so I'll give you all a couple of extra days to finish posting. DON'T FORGET TO COMPLETE THE ASSIGNMENT!

Have a relaxing Spring Break!!!

THE STRANGER DISCUSSION ONLINE--REQUIRED POST (20 POINTS)

2009-03-15T12:23:00.000-07:00

Now that I will no longer be attending class, we will need to finish our Stranger Discussion online.

HERE ARE THE GUIDELINES:

1. You must post (substantively) a total of FOUR times, worth 5 points each.

2. Posts will be graded on the SUBSTANTIVE nature of the response (be sure to include supporting examples from the text) and adherence to the posting guidelines provided here.

3. It is preferred that you DO NOT POST TWICE IN A ROW...... (As in, you've waited till the last minute and now must post everything all at once. This isn't in the proper spirit of the assignment:) )

4. AT LEAST ONE (preferably two) of your postings MUST BE IN RESPONSE TO THE COMMENTS OF SOMEONE ELSE.

5. You must answer/respond to at least TWO of the questions provided below.

6. DUE DATES:

*THE FIRST POST IS DUE BY WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18 BY 7:40 A.M.
*THE SECOND POST IS DUE BY THURSDAY, MARCH 19 BY 7:40 A.M.
*THE FINAL TWO POSTS ARE DUE BY FRIDAY MARCH 20 BY 7:40 A.M.
*3 BONUS POINTS TO ANYONE WHO MAKES THEIR FIRST POST BY TUESDAY, MARCH 19 BY 7:40 A.M. Please feel free to begin posting at any time. No need to wait until the due dates.

QUESTIONS

The Stranger questions part II (Page numbers may vary according to the publication you have).

1. Explain the title of the novel. Why is this the title, and where do we see evidence of this in the novel?

2. Explain Meursault’s statement “I realized then that a man who had lived only one day could easily live for a hundred years in prison.”(79).

3. Describe Meursault’s trial. What did you find significant or noteworthy about it? What absurdities exist during the trial and how could they be a metaphor for life?

4. Explain Mersault’s statement “it doesn’t much matter whether you die at thirty or seventy, since in either case other men and women will naturally go on living—and for thousands of years.” Do you agree with his attitude towards life and death? Explain why or why not.

5. The chaplain asks Meursault “And do you really live with the thought that when you die, you die, and nothing remains.” Meursault replies “yes.” How might such a belief (as opposed to a belief in some kind of life after death) alter the behavior and decisions of a person, if at all?

6. What other aspects of the novel stand out to you? What else do you find "discussion-worthy?"

CHOOSE YOUR NOVEL

2009-03-13T04:56:00.001-07:00

I'm taking reservations for AP novels due after Spring Break. Stake your claim here! Once you've posted, no one else can choose your novel.

You must choose a novel YOU HAVE NOT PREVIOUSLY READ.

Be sure to then check local bookstores or libraries to get a copy.

THE STRANGER BONUS POINT DISCUSSION (up to 15 points)

2009-03-11T08:33:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be nice to offer some bonus points here at the end of the grading period, so if anyone happens to check the blog today or tonight.......feel free to participate.

We will be discussing the first few chapters of The Stranger during Thursday's class, so here's the bonus offering:

THE RULES:

1. UP TO 5 BONUS POINTS FOR EACH SUBSTANTIVE POST IN RESPONSE TO ONE OR MORE OF THE QUESTIONS BELOW
2. IF YOU POST MORE THAN ONCE, YOU MUST RESPOND TO THE POST OF A CLASSMATE
3. YOU MAY POST UP TO 3 TIMES FOR A TOTAL OF UP TO 15 BONUS POINTS (DEPENDING ON THE SUBSTANTIVE NATURE OF YOUR POST)
4. YOU MUST INCLUDE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES FROM THE NOVEL TO SUPPORT STATEMENTS IN YOUR POSTS
5. YOU MAY POST UP UNTIL THURSDAY MORNING'S CLASS

Here are the questions:

1. What does Meursault notice during the wake/funeral? What strikes him as "absurd"?

2. What do you think Meursault's behavior in response to his mother's death says about him as a person?

3. Explain the nurse’s statement in chapter 1: “If you go slowly, you risk getting sunstroke. But if you go too fast, you work up a sweat and then catch a chill inside the church.” What larger concept is Camus trying to illustrate here?

4. Characterize Raymond—note irony in his stated values and judgments. What are similarities and differences between him and Meursault?

5. What "absurditites" have been presented in part I so far? Explain.

6. What stands out to you so far about the novel and the characters. Provide your opinion and observations, but support with examples.

A FEW ITEMS

2009-03-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

Mr. Gladdish indicated that there was some concern over grades from the judges on Senior Project Presentations. This is the case every year, in large part because some of the grade depends on whom you get for a judge.

I am more than happy to take a look at any of the presentation grades you felt were unreasonably low. We can look at how it will affect your letter grade for the 9 weeks and go from there. Although presenting in front of judges is an important part of the "Senior Project Experience," it is not a system without its flaws.

Also, you have several things due on Thursday, and I am tempted NOT to give you the reading quiz over the next four chapters until next Monday, so you can focus on your essay and reading "Myth of Sisyphus." Mr. Gladdish said you didn't have a lot of work time because of the shortened schedule, so would anyone be terribly upset if we pushed back the reading quiz?

Post any questions here. I'll see you on Thursday.

TUESDAY'S AND THURSDAY'S CLASSES

2009-03-09T19:37:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday, you will do the following:

1. take a quiz over chapters 1-4 of The Stranger
2. go over returned timed writings over "The Secret History"
3. receive lots of graded papers

4. Have the rest of the period for working on one or more of the following:

***reading The Stranger (quiz Thursday over chapters 5 and 6 from part I and 1 and 2 of part II)

***annotating Camus' "Myth of Sisyphus" (you need to mark/include at least 10 questions and/or comments ON the handout for our discussion on Thursday)

***preparing your essay over Death of a Salesman or Oedipus (you have a choice) that answers the AP prompt question I gave you two weeks ago. (Mr. Gladdish has extras). This essay is due Thursday and must be typed, but you can prepare/braintorm/draft for it during class if you choose.

On Thursday, we will do the following:

1. take a quiz over chapters 5,6 and 1,2 of the Stranger
2. go over returned timed writings over the e.e. cummings poem
3. Discuss Creative Projects and the last grading period schedule
4. Discuss Myth of Sisyphus and The Stranger

If you have any questions, please post those here.

I will plan to see you on Thursday in class.

DON'T FORGET TO POST YOUR REFLECTION FROM FRIDAY'S DISCUSSION BELOW.

P.S. Some of you have make up quizzes and writings you need to take care of this week!!!!!!

SALESMAN REFLECTION (5 points)

2009-03-06T12:13:00.000-08:00

DUE BY TUESDAY, MARCH 10 AT 7:40

Please post your reflection from today's discussion here. You may respond to one or more of the following questions:

**Who said something that made you think during today's discussion? Explain.

**What would you have like to have added that you didn't get a chance to say?

**Did you change your perspective in any way regarding the play or the characters? If so, explain.

DEATH OF A SALESMAN BONUS (AND FRIDAY'S CLASS)

2009-03-04T19:31:00.001-08:00

On Friday, we will begin with oral interp, then discuss Death of a Salesman, and then I'll give you introductory info and supplemental reading material over The Stranger.

In preparation for the Salesman discussion, I'd like to ask a few questions ahead of time. Anyone responding (substantively, of course, using examples from the text) on the blog BEFORE Friday's discussion will RECEIVE BONUS POINTS on the discussion grade. Multiple responses here will also count as part of your contribution to the discussion (though it doesn't replace your responsibility for participating in class).

Here are the questions to think about (and hopefully respond to):

1. What do you think is the significance of the play as a whole? In other words, what are Miller's messages/themes? How does he express these messages/ themes?

2. Which characters do you find most and least appealing, and explain why?

3. Do you have any sympathy for Willy or not? Explain specifically why or why not? Do you think Miller likes or sympathizes with any of his main characters?

4. The characters' various speeches at Willy's funeral/gravesite are very different. Charley, Biff, Happy, and Linda all have very different things to say at the end of the play. Which of the characters' dialogue stands out to you the most, and what do you think the words say about the characters themselves?

5. Did you like this play? Why or why not? Explain your thoughts using specific examples from the text.

You may respond to one or more of the questions, and as always you are encouraged to respond to each other as well. If you have a difficult time speaking in class, this is a good alternative way to contribute, THOUGH I SAY AGAIN......IT DOESN'T REPLACE the need to contribute in class as well:)

I hope you guys are having a good week. It has been strange not seeing everyone this week. I am excited to hear about how your presentations went. I've been hearing very good things about them.

WEDNESDAY'S CLASS

2009-03-03T17:09:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow (Wednesday) you will finish reading Death of a Salesman, watch the rest of the movie, and take the quiz. Some of you will present your senior projects to the judges.

On Friday, I will be sneaking up to school just for your class to listen to your fabulous oral interpretation, discuss Act II of Death of a Salesman, and introduce Camus' The Stranger.

REGARDING THE INTERP:

1. DON'T FORGET THAT THERE IS A SHORT WRITTEN COMPONENT IN WHICH YOU MUST TYPE OUT WHY YOU CHOSE THOSE PARTICULAR LINES AND WHAT THEIR SIGNIFICANCE IS. This is on the handout I gave you weeks ago. If you lost yours, I left some extras for Mr. Gladish to give you.

2. Also, be sure to bring me a copy of what you're reciting, so I can see if you have it memorized AND I can cue your line in case you forget.

***By the end of this 9 weeks, I will give you a schedule for the rest of the year. It will basically consist of reading one novel of your choice (off the AP list I hand out), writing about it, and finishing your scrapbooks.

***There will also be one creative project. Those who are working on the editing of Hamlet may use that as their creative project.

Any questions, post them here. Otherwise, I'll see you friday. Continue to look for gradebook updates as I grade your work from home.

SENIOR PROJECT PRESENTATIONS

2009-03-01T11:23:00.001-08:00

Good luck on your Senior Project Presentations this week! I know you will all be great. You did a nice job on your in-class presentations, and most of you only had a couple of changes to make.

HERE ARE SOME SUGGESTIONS WHEN YOU PRESENT TO THE JUDGES:

1. WHEN YOU WALK IN THE ROOM, INTRODUCE YOURSELF AND SHAKE THEIR HANDS BEFORE YOU WALK UP TO THE FRONT OF THE ROOM. For example, you would walk in and walk right over to the judges and say, "Hi, I"m Ashley. Nice to meet you." Then shake hands. They will be impressed by this.

2. DRESS PROFESSIONALLY. NO JEANS! GUYS SHOULD WEAR DRESS PANTS OR KHAKIS AND GIRLS SHOULD WEAR DRESS PANTS OR A SKIRT.

3. IF YOU HAVE TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES, DON'T PANIC. Most of you are in the IMC (Sorry Max and Kirstie), so you have close access to Mr. Hammonds if you need help.

4. TALK ABOUT HOW MUCH YOU ENJOYED THE PROJECT AND HOW MUCH YOU LEARNED. If you seem passionate and positive about what you did, it will make a better impression.

5. BE CLEAR AND DETAILED ABOUT EXACTLY WHAT YOUR PROJECT INVOLVED. I noticed in your presenations last week, many of you glossed over the details quickly and assumed I had a thorough sense of what went into your project. Remember, these judges are listening to dozens of presenations. BE VERY SPECIFIC ABOUT WHAT YOUR PROJECT INVOLVED.

NOW, HERE'S THE SCHEDULE.

IMC FICTION ROOM: MONDAY, MARCH 2

8-8:15 Coleigh and Alyssa
8:15-8:30 Sara F.
8:30-8:45 Shawn (and Sam)
8:45-9 Rachel and Sarah
9-9:15 Wes and Tyler T.
9:15-9;30 Ben
9:30-9:45 Tyler V.

11:15-11:30 Ashley (and Jenna)

IMC FICTION ROOM: WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4

8:15-8:30 Kaity
8:30-8:45 Tamara (and partner.....is it Michelle? I'm drawing a blank on her name)
8:45-9 Lauren (and Korrinne (sp?))
9-9:15 Colten (and partner)

ROOM 200: WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4

8:30-8:45 Max
8;45-9 Kirstie

Good luck everyone! I know you will do a great job. Let me know how it goes.

DON'T FORGET TO POST BELOW FOR DEATH OF A SALESMAN ACT I!!!!

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27

2009-02-27T18:20:00.000-08:00

As many of you already know, Colten's dad passed away yesterday. Visitation is from 2 until 8 on Sunday at Alexander West and Monday from 9 a.m. until the 11 a.m. service at New Beginnings Christian Fellowship Church.

Many of you have already expressed your concern for Colten. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts.

DEATH OF A SALESMAN REQUIRED POST

2009-02-26T11:07:00.001-08:00

Respond to one or more of the following questions over Act I of Death of a Salesman. Here are the requirements:

1. You must POST TWICE
2. Posts must be SUBSTANTIVE
3. At least one post must be IN RESPONSE TO THE POST OF A CLASSMATE.
4. The two posts are due by Monday, March 2 at 7:40 a.m.
5. At least ONE POST must be made BEFORE Sunday, March 1.
6. You must use specific examples from the play in each post.

Here are the possible questions:

**What do you think of the characters in the play? You may focus on one character or discuss more than one.

**Discuss/analyze Willy's relationships with his sons. What stands out to you the most about his interactions with them?

**Why do you think Miller includes all the flashbacks in the play? What is their significance on the reading/understanding of the play as a whole?

**What kind of person is Linda? Discuss her relationship with Willy. Would you consider her to be a "good wife?" Why or why not?

** What are some of the quotes in the play that stand out to you (These may or may not be quotes we've already discussed). Why do you find them significant?

**What other aspects of the play do you find discussion-worthy? Explain why.

SALESMAN QUIZ--ACT I

2009-02-25T16:22:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow we will have a 25 point quiz over Death of a Salesman Act I. Don't forget to finish reading Act I!!!! It will be multiple choice and quote identification.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25--MY LAST CLASS

2009-02-25T10:52:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my last day with you all and I want you to know how much I have enjoyed this class! You are all thoughtful, intelligent, and creative people. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know each of you.

While it is my last official day, I will still be involved in the planning (and unfortunately, some of you may say) in some of the grading for the class.

I will keep the blog up and running, and should you have any questions or concerns.....feel free to ask. I want to make sure your class is taken care of through the end of the year.

You should expect to read the Stranger and one other novel on the AP book list. You will also have a couple more writing assignments AND time to work on your scrapbook. We will also continue to have required discussions and postings on the blog.

I anticipate the last 9 weeks being an easier grading period; however, you will definitely still have work to do.

I just want you all to know what a special group of students I think you are and that I've really enjoyed teaching and learning from you.

See you tomorrow!

SENIOR PROJECT PRESENTATIONS ROUND 2

2009-02-24T10:56:00.000-08:00

I have Tyler V, Ashley, Max, and the Wes/Tyler T. duo scheduled to present their power points Wednesday morning at 7 a.m.

All must be there BY 7, please.

Nice job on all the presentations today!

SENIOR PROJECT PRESENTATIONS

2009-02-23T16:24:00.001-08:00

Don't forget you need to have your powerpoint presentations and portfolios ready for tomorrow (unless you signed up for Wednesday at 7 a.m.)

PORTFOLIOS DO NOT need to be in a binder. Just make sure everything is in order, and I'll 3-hole-punch it and put it in a binder for you.

You also have your Hamlet feedback sheets and American Dream objects due tomorrow.

Post any questions here. Otherwise, see you in the a.m.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20--IT'S A WRAP!

2009-02-20T11:56:00.001-08:00

THIS MULTI-PART POST DEALS WITH THE FOLLOWING:

1. HAMLET
2. POWERPOINTS AND PORTFOLIOS
3. AMERICAN DREAM OBJECTS
4. ORAL INTERP PROJECTS

PLEASE USE THIS FORUM TO POST ANY AND ALL QUESTIONS ABOUT THE TOPICS BELOW
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Great job today on finishing Hamlet. I know it's been a LONG project, but so many of you have really stepped up and put a lot of effort in. Though shooting days always seem to be crazy, I think the film itself is going to turn out really well.

Those of you who are editing have some work ahead of you, but I'm already impressed with your efforts so far.

Some of you have been asking when we'll be able to see the finished product. I talked to Mr. Hughes about that, and we decided that the goal would be to view the final play (along with blooper reel) sometime towards the middle of the last grading period. I will come back to watch that, as I wouldn't miss it for anything.

I just want you all to know how much I appreciate everything you've done. It was definitely something different for us. That's for sure!

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

On to next week.......

Our big assignment for Tuesday is your POWER POINT PRESENTATION along with your portfolio.

FOR THE PORTFOLIOS: You do NOT need to put them in your own binder. Some people did submit them in their own binders last year, but you don't have to. We have binders that we use for all the portfolios, so if you will just paper clip your portfolio information IN ORDER. I will 3-hole punch the material and put it in a binder for you. Please do a cover page, though.

HERE ARE THE PEOPLE I HAVE DOWN FOR TUESDAY AT 7 A.M.

Rachel and Sarah, Tamara, Lauren, Shawn

You will need to all be here AT 7, so we can get started and finished BEFORE class.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ALSO DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR AMERICAN DREAM OBJECT AND BE PREPARED TO EXPLAIN WHY IT IS A GOOD REPRESENTATION.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

FINALLY, ABOUT YOUR ORAL INTERP PROJECT......... I am pushing it back to AFTER senior project presentations. We've got too much going on right now to cram one more thing like this in. We will probably do those on the FRIDAY of senior project week (2 weeks from today).

BLOG POST ASSIGNMENT OVER OEDIPUS

2009-02-11T10:24:00.000-08:00

For this assignment, you will need to make 3 SEPARATE POSTS (5 points each) due on or before the following dates:

1) due by Friday 2/13 at 7:40 a.m.

2) due by Monday 2/16 at 7:40 a.m.

3) due by Wednesday 2/18 at 7:40 a.m.

Requirements

AT LEAST ONE OF THE POSTS SHOULD BE IN RESPONSE TO THE COMMENTS OF A CLASSMATE

POSTS SHOULD BE SUBSTANTIVE AND INCLUDE EXAMPLES FROM THE PLAY AS WELL AS PERSONAL OPINION

PLEASE AVOID REPEATING SOMEONE ELSE'S ANSWERS. EXAMPLE: IF SOMEONE DISCUSSES DRAMATIC IRONY IN THE PLAY, AVOID A POST THAT BASICALLY SAYS "I AGREE WITH _______________ ABOUT HIS EXAMPLES OF DRAMATIC IRONY."

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

You may respond to one of the following questions, or simply include your own comments or questions:

1. What are some of Oedipus' "tragic flaws" that lead to his downfall? Although his situation is more outrageous than most of us face in our daily lives, what about Oedipus could most people relate to?

(This question takes some thought, but there are probably many commonalities between Oedipus and regular people.)

2. Analyze the role of Fate vs. Free Will in the play. Over what do the characters have control and what is out of their hands. How can you apply the idea of fate vs. free will in your own life ( you may use general or specific examples)?

3. Locate some instances of dramatic irony in the play. How does this affect the overall reading of the play.

4. Compare and contrast the title characters in Hamlet and Oedipus. How are they similar and how are they different? What are your personal thoughts/ observations about each character. Provide personal opinion, but support it with examples.

5. Discuss the theme of blindness vs. sight in the play. How are they related to the theme? Why does Oedipus blind himself instead of joining Jocasta in suicide?

6. Respond to any other themes, etc. from the play.

OEDIPUS

2009-02-08T11:51:00.000-08:00

This Monday and Wednesday, we will begin and finish Oedipus Rex by Sophocles. PLEASE BRING YOUR ANTHOLOGIES, since you know my habit is to stop and talk about what's important. If you can mark in pencil parts of the play that we discuss, I believe it will help you greatly on the quizzes.

Friday, we are planning to shoot Act IV of Hamlet (we're over halfway finished)!.

While there is no homework for Monday, you should be working on the following:

1) your two scrapbook sections that will be due very soon

2) Also, ANOTHER REMINDER TO ORDER OR PURCHASE THE STRANGER BY ALBERT CAMUS ASAP!

3) Friday Essay due this Friday......Fate vs. Free Will is the topic

APPLAUSE FOR YOU!!!!

2009-02-05T11:39:00.000-08:00

Just a post to say GREAT JOB on our Hamlet production. Shout outs and kudos go to lots of people, but ESPECIALLY the following:

PERFORMERS
First off, those of you performing have been AWESOME! Performers have given up their entire enrichment periods on the blue days BEFORE each shoot to block each Act. They've come up with costumes, memorized lines, rearranged the script when someone is absent, and have done an amazing job overall during the shoot.

SETS AND CAMERA PEOPLE
They have not only taken pictures for sets and brought various props on short notice, but they are now running the cameras and giving up enrichment to edit the film and record the music.

MANY OTHERS of you working on different portions of the project have also contributed greatly as well. Thanks especially to those who are not only working nonstop DURING class, but then are also giving up enrichment time for the project as well.

Obviously, if we did this again there are definitely things we would do differently, but that's the way it works when you're "pioneering" a project. At the end, I will survey you all for suggestions. Of course, I already have a list of changes I would make; however, your input will be extremely valuable.

SPEAKING OF "THE END," it has been suggested that we celebrate the end of this project with another "feast." If everyone so chooses, we can set up a day to have "feast round 2" in the cafeteria.

I WILL POST AGAIN OVER THE WEEKEND REGARDING NEXT WEEK'S CLASS ACTIVITIES.

THANKS AGAIN FOR A GREAT JOB!

PROP NEEDS FOR THURSDAY'S HAMLET

2009-02-03T17:30:00.000-08:00

Everyone......after walking through Act III today, the performers realized they need a couple of props for Thursday:

1. a sword for Polonius' stabbing (toy sword please!)

2. a bottle or container to pour poison in the player King Hamlet's ear.

Can anyone help? If props people can help out with this, that would be great; however, if anyone, in any of the groups, has such items, it would be a huge help.

Post here if you can come up with something. This would be a great way to contribute if you still need to find ways to make your contribution!

Thanks!

WOW! WHAT A WEEK!

2009-01-30T11:31:00.000-08:00

Here's my family enjoying the winter weather. I, of course, was relegated to watching. People who are 6 1/2 months pregnant are not allowed to sled!!!!!

I hope that you are all staying warm! What a crazy week! I'm sure at least some of you lost power during the week. We lost ours on Tuesday night and it came back on Thursday night. Phone and internet were not back on until today (Friday).

I hope everyone was able to make the most of the time off. I know we enjoyed it, although not having power is not a lot of fun.

Regarding our class........We will still have the timed writings on Tuesday, and Act III performers will walk through Hamlet since we shoot again on Thursday. We will begin Oedipus when we can. I had planned to get about half of it read last Friday, but Mother Nature decided differently.

I have enjoyed reading the comments from those of you who have completed the required posts over the timed writing material. If you haven't, you'll need to BY TUESDAY, assuming something doesn't go crazy with the weather again. Those of you who do not have power or internet access, should make sure to find time Monday at school to do your post. YOU ARE WELCOME TO USE THE EXTRA COMPUTER IN MY ROOM AT ANY TIME DURING THE DAY. Each post is worth 5 points (20 points total), so be sure to complete it.

If anyone has any stories from the week to share (loss of power, other calamaties, or fun things you did on your time off), I'd love to hear how your week went. I'm sure others would enjoy your stories as well. Post here with tales from the frozen week or if you have any other questions.

Hopefully, I'll see you on Tuesday of next week!

next to of course god america i--REQUIRED POST #1

2009-01-26T04:28:00.000-08:00

DUE DATE FOR POSTS: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28 7:30 AM

Respond to the poem by e.e. cummings. Some things to think about include the following:

What is the poet's view of patriotism? On what evidence from the poem are you basing your thoughts?

What literary techniques does the poet use and how do they contribute to the work as a whole?

What IS the significance of the work as a whole? What are the author's themes? In other words, what is he really trying to say?

What stands out to you about the poem?

What confuses you? What questions would you like to pose to the class?

DON'T WORRY ABOUT WRONG ANSWERS!!!! We have to start somewhere to make meaning of works that are presented to us.

***Remember, you need to post TWICE, substantively. One post must be in response to the post of a classmate. 5 bonus points for any postings made on Monday.

THE SECRET HISTORY--REQUIRED POST #2

2009-01-26T04:22:00.000-08:00

DUE DATE FOR POSTS: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28 7:30 AM

Respond to the passage by Donna Tartt. Some things to think about include the following:

What is the narrator's attitude towards death, and what evidence helped you come to this conclusion?

What IS the overall significance of the passage? What are the themes, central ideas, etc? Ultimately, what is the author's point in writing the piece?

What literary techniques are used, and how do they contribute to the overall significance of the work?

What stands out to you about the passage?

What confuses you? What questions would you like to pose to the group?

***Remember, you need to post TWICE, substantively. One post must be in response to the post of a classmate. 5 bonus points for any postings made on Monday.

BACK TO HAMLET ON MONDAY!

2009-01-25T12:37:00.000-08:00

We are SHOOTING ACT II on Monday, so performers please bring costumes and have your lines memorized.

Musicians will record during enrichment, so please also bring your instruments and know what you are recording.

On Wednesday of this week, I will be presenting at a conference in Indy. While I'm going, you will complete.........a timed writing. I will return your R and G timed writings tomorrow and give you the new topics for Wednesday so, you will have a couple of days to think about them and prepare.

See you Monday.

Greek Drama

2009-01-21T12:56:00.001-08:00

For Thursday's class, we're taking a Hamlet break and spending most of the class on Greek Drama.

Hamlet Act II performers need to know their lines; we will go through them tomorrow and shoot on Monday.

Musicians: Mr. Hughes can't come to record tomorrow, but can record you on Monday during enrichment.

Right now, the pressure is mostly on the performers; however, those involved with editing........you're time is coming as soon as the shoot is over.

Thanks again for all of your effort. Though this isn't "Masterpiece Theatre," I think we are learning a few things and breaking the monotony of the same old, same old. There's something to be said for that.

ADDITIONAL SCRAPBOOK TOPICS POSTED

2009-01-20T12:17:00.000-08:00

We didn't get time to talk about scrapbooks today, but I posted the handout that the 12A students receive on my teacher web page. You can find it under "Links" and "Courses." (Find my teacher web page by clicking on "Reitz Web Page" under helpful links below).

You are welcome to use any of those topics. You have the same basic requirements as 12A, so you can go by that handout as well.

Great job today, everyone on Hamlet! Thanks to the performers, those working the cameras, and to all who helped in other ways. It was a good start. Once we get going, I think it will go faster.

Act II performers need to have their lines pretty well memorized by Thursday. We'll work with that some in addition to discussing scrapbooks and Greek Drama.

This project is definitely an adventure! We shoot Act II next Monday.

GREEK DRAMA QUIZ--helpful hints

2009-01-19T12:36:00.000-08:00

The quiz on Tuesday is a reading comprehension quiz, so as long as you have read and taken notes over the assigned introductory pages, you should be ready to go.

QUESTIONS 1-10 are mulitple choice questions that cover information in the introductory pages; I talked about some of the important information as we read last week.

QUESTIONS 11-23 are matching. You will be asked to match the term with the definition.

As I said in class, you are responsible for all the highlighted terms, including the following:

chorus, skene, deus ex machina, prologue, parados, episodia, stasimon, exodus, hamartia, hubris, catharsis, reversal, and dramatic irony (these are the terms on the quiz)

QUESTIONS 24 AND 25 are True/ False covering the general information in these pages.

Make sure to study! It's a 25 point quiz.

Also, tomorrow we shoot Act I. I haven't heard from anyone yet regarding crowns, etc. I'm assuming you all got what you needed. If not, please let me know. Again, thanks for all of your hard work. I was so impressed with those who presented their work last Thursday. You were great!

Post any questions (Hamlet, Greek Drama, or "other") here. See you Tuesday.

Thursday, January 15

2009-01-15T13:16:00.000-08:00

Awesome job on Hamlet today for both performers and musicians. Act I is really coming together! Be sure to keep running your lines for Tuesday's shoot!!!!!

Also, several of you still need costumes. We must have those by Tuesday.

As for PROPS.......here's what we still need:

2 crowns--1 for the king and 1 for the queen (NEED THESE FOR TUESDAY)

2 spears or "spear-like" objects (think broom handles if we get really desperate) (NEED FOR TUESDAY)

2 swords (preferably toy swords......I'm pretty sure we won't be able to have actual swords in school)

A chalice

a skull

shovels for the gravediggers

I'm sure there's more..........it's up to you all to help figure out what else we need.

Please post and let us know who has been able to secure what. SET PEOPLE, if you could help with some of this it would be great. But we can use help from everyone.

The performers are already taking care of much of this by getting their own costumes. Any help from the rest of you would represent a nice team effort. It would be a great way to help out, especially if you know you probably haven't contributed to the project as much as you could or should.

OTHER CLASS BUSINESS

Look for a Greek Drama post this weekend

Arrggghhhh--we still didn't get to the scrapbook handouts. We will do that at the beginning of the period on Tuesday RIGHT AT THE BEGINNING OF CLASS, BEFORE the Greek Drama quiz.

Additional topics for "writes" have been requested. Your request will be granted. I will try to have additional topics for you on Tuesday.

Wednesday, January 14

2009-01-14T12:24:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow's class will consist of the following:

HAMLET business
1. run Hamlet lines
2. record Hamlet music
3. discuss the need for Hamlet props
4. performers will perform Act I WITHOUT scripts, but WITH feeling:)

GREEK DRAMA
5. go over important parts of Greek Drama IN YOUR ANTHOLOGIES (be sure to bring those)
6. take notes over Greek Drama and Oedipus
7. prepare for background quiz on Tuesday

OTHER
8. go over scrapbook requirements

***WE ARE SCHEDULED TO BEGIN SHOOTING HAMLET ON TUESDAY JAN. 20---WE WILL BE USING EVERYONE TO HELP SHOOT THE FILM (CAMERAS, MICROPHONES, ETC.); PLEASE TRY NOT TO BE ABSENT (ESPECIALLY PERFORMERS!)

timed writing tomorrow is over R AND G ARE DEAD

2009-01-12T10:52:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that although the sample free response questions I gave you on Friday include many other texts as possible essay topics, you may ONLY write the essay over Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead. I just wanted to make sure there was no confusion.

R AND G ARE DEAD ROUND II

2009-01-09T12:23:00.001-08:00

Nice job of discussion today, everyone. It's great to see that when you really put your minds to something---like postponing a timed writing-- you can do it:)

Those that participated did a really nice job of raising interesting and thoughtful points about the play. One interesting point of discussion was Colten's suggestion that the entire film is actually a play produced by the players in the forest.

If you click on the link (under "Helpful Links") entitled "Lecture on Stoppard," Ian Johnston addresses this very thing. It's towards the end of the lecture. I would be interested to hear any responses to what Johnston suggests, comparing it to the idea that Colten raised during discussion.

And SPEAKING OF DISCUSSION..... before I assign a grade for today's discussion, I think I WILL ALLOW ANY FURTHER DISCUSSION TO CONTINUE HERE AND COUNT ONLINE DISCUSSION AS PART OF THE TOTAL DISCUSSION GRADE. If you choose to participate under this post, keep in mind that you may.....

respond to issues discussed today

respond to comments made during discussion that you've had further time to think about

ask further questions about the play or about ideas to include for the timed writing

respond to the posts of your classmates

IMPORTANT: if you choose to participate, make sure your posts are substantive and represent thoughtful consideration of today's discussion and the content of the play. I like the idea of continuing the discussion here, especially for those who feel more comfortable with this format; however, I don't want people to just post minimal substance in order to create the illusion of participation. Don't worry about wrong answers or interpretation; just focus on thoughtful questions, commentary, or response to others.

R AND G ARE DEAD help for the timed writing and DISCUSSION

2009-01-07T07:41:00.000-08:00

I have linked a page of quotes which YOU MAY USE on the timed writing under "Helpful Links". I have also linked to this blog a lecture on Tom Stoppard which I think is very helpful. You are encouraged to read the lecture; however, YOU MAY NOT use that printout during the timed writing.

Of course, any notes you take from that lecture or class, can be used.

Please review the handout I provided and think about what you will contribute to the pre-timed writing discussion. Discussion credit will also be given for any comments or questions posted here. I will print the post page and any comments (with substance, of course) or questions will be recorded as discussion points. THIS DOESN'T MEAN YOU DON'T HAVE TO PARTICIPATE in the discussion, but it can certainly be considered part of your participation......especially for those who prefer to post a comment rather than make one out loud. RESPONSES TO POST QUESTIONS ALSO COUNT FOR DISCUSSION POINTS.

SHOULD ANYONE DECIDE TO PARTICIPATE, I'LL START OFF THE POSTS WITH A QUESTION......

TUESDSAY, JANUARY 6

2009-01-06T12:15:00.000-08:00

We'll continue R and G are Dead on Wednesday. Please continue to take notes for the timed writing.

Also, don't forget that on Friday you have your "Stream of Consciousness" poem due. See page 220 in your anthology for further explanation about this literary technique. If you have questions, be sure to ask in class tomorrow. And of course, refer to the the handout I gave you on Monday regarding friday essays.

Post any questions here. See you tomorrow.

HAPPY (ALMOST) 2009!!!

2008-12-28T13:11:00.000-08:00

I hope you have all had a relaxing holiday. I know I definitely needed a break with the rush that comes at the end of the semester. The good news is that we have another week of freedom to enjoy before we return to the everyday routine.

A break is a great time to reflect. The cliche of New Years resolutions aside, now is a perfect time to think about what is working for you and what isn't. Sometimes we don't have time to clear our brains during the hectic grind of the school year to think about where we might change course and where we are doing well.

THE START OF A NEW YEAR IS ALSO THE PERFECT TIME TO START THE SECOND SEMESTER WITH SOME BONUS POINTS, WHICH I "RESOLVE" TO RECORD DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF CLASSES!

**Here's the bonus assignment WORTH 5 POINTS (remember that's one letter grade bump on a 50 point assignment)***

1) THINK of at least 5 areas of your life that you could address and 5 resolutions that make sense for you.

Examples: academics, health, personal fitness, spirituality, family and/or personal relationships, attitude, creativity, productivity, etc. The possibilities are endless.

2) POST at least 3 specific resolutions for yourself during the new semester. AT LEAST ONE MUST HAVE TO DO WITH OUR CLASS: AP LITERATURE AND COMP. (You can save the other, more personal, resolutions for your eyes only).

3) ALSO POST at least 2 activities that you have found most enjoyable over break.

***RULES AND RESTRICTIONS APPLY:

1) resolutions must not closely resemble other classmates' posts, meaning......no copying; make your own resolutions

2) same goes for activities over the holidays. You can certainly RESPOND in agreement with someone else's post, but come up with your own ideas.

3) due date is January 4 by 9 p.m. The earlier you post, the fewer people will have taken your ideas.

I'LL LIST MY OWN SAMPLE TO START OFF THE POSTS. ENJOY THE REST OF YOUR BREAK!!!!

FINAL EXAMS AND FINAL GRADES

2008-12-15T08:48:00.000-08:00

A few notes......

1. Our Final Exam is Tuesday.

2. Binders must be turned in by Tuesday. Here's a reminder about what goes in it.....

I. 4 Journals (40 points)---#1 1984 questions, #2 timed writing prep, #3 Animal Dreams questions, #4 This I Believe writing
(REMEMBER, EACH JOURNAL MUST BE ONE PAGE IN LENGTH TO RECEIVE ALL 10 POINTS)

II. 3 Grammar Edits (15 points)-- dates are 8/21, 8/29, and 10/1

III. 2 Notes (10 points)--- #1 Socratic seminar evaluation, #2 Hamlet characters

TOTAL 65 points

3. Act V script people-----I need the script by Tuesday so I can give you a grade.

4. FOR ALL WHO HAVE NOT YET TURNED IN BINDERS (AND ACT V SCRIPT PEOPLE), I am putting in a "missing" for your grade until you give it to me. AS SOON AS YOU TURN IT IN, I will change the "missing" and give you a grade which will raise your grade considerably.

BINDERS AND ACT V SCRIPT WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED LATE UNTIL AFTER TUESDAY.

SEE YOU TUESDAY!!!

FRIDAY'S TO DO LIST

2008-12-11T12:57:00.001-08:00

1. Performers show off memorized version of Act II

2. We watch the rest of Act V

3. We take the Act V quiz

4. We go over timed writings (Plath and Blake poetry)

5. We review literary terms that are on the final using our remote controls that didn't work last time (I'm pretty sure I've got it figured out!!)

6. We tie up loose ends before the final: grades, Act V script, makeup assignments from those who were absent, etc.

OUR TIME IS SHORT AND CLASS TIME IS BUSY. IF YOU HAVE A PRESSING QUESTION, IT HAS A BETTER CHANCE OF GETTING ANSWERED HERE.

See you tomorrow!!!!!!!

FINALS ARE ALMOST HERE!!!!

2008-12-09T13:30:00.001-08:00

For tomorrow..........Act II WILL BE PERFORMED. Make sure it is memorized! Those with small parts, should be taking MANY small parts, so that Hamlet (and any other main speaking role) doesn't have to remember everything!

MUSIC PEOPLE: I must have some way to grade you for THIS SEMESTER. That means you must put something detailed in writing regarding exactly WHAT you are going to do with the music, WHO else besides yourselves are involved, WHERE you are going to record it, and WHEN (estimated dates) will it be recorded.

LITERARY TERMS will probably go on FRIDAY, assuming we can get Act V finished. I don't want to send any reading home if possible. Our goal for tomorrow is to finish.

I will have FINAL EXAM REVIEW sheets ready for tomorrow.

ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT ANYTHING FOR CLASS......PLEASE POST HERE SO WE CAN ADDRESS THEM.

We're almost to the break!!!!!

POWER POINTS DUE MONDAY

2008-12-03T18:19:00.000-08:00

Please refer to the handout I gave you a few weeks ago for guidelines about your power point presentations.

If you have any questions, please ask in class or post them here.

Sorry this is not much of a post, but like you I find myself with less time as the semester nears it's end. Also, I'm pregnant and tired, so I'm blaming it on the baby.

By the way......we found out tuesday IT'S A BOY!

HAMLET ACT I PERFORMANCE

2008-12-01T11:05:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday. It was a much needed break. AND NOW, back to our world of due dates:(

PERFORMERS.......You need to be prepared to perform Act I WITHOUT A SCRIPT!!!!! It must be memorized.

SET group......You need to have a presentation of photos/sets ready to put on the projector for Act I.

MUSIC group.....You need to have your music recorded. (I haven't heard anything from this group. Have you made arrangements to record Act I already? I am happy to help you set something up, but you'll have to tell me what you need).

IF YOU ARE NOT PART OF ONE OF THESE GROUPS, you need to let me know how you are contributing at this point.

We will read and watch Act IV in class tomorrow.

If you have any questions, please post them here.

THANKSGIVING FEAST

2008-11-24T12:01:00.000-08:00

Since many of you decided you'd rather have a potluck Thanksgiving feast than boring old donuts, I thought we might organize ourselves and post what we're bringing so that we don't have 17 people bringing cookies.

For anyone who doesn't feel like making food, we also will need PLATES, FORKS, AND CUPS (if someone volunteers for drinks).

REMEMBER, you are NOT required to bring anything. You just shouldn't eat or drink if you don't contribute.

ALSO, LETS MEET IN THE CAFETERIA AT 7:40, so we are legal and not breaking any school rules about eating in the classroom.

SO...... GO AHEAD AND POST WHAT YOU PLAN TO BRING, so everyone can plan accordingly. I'll bring something too....
I haven't decided what yet.

Senior projectpowerpoint

2008-11-23T18:55:00.000-08:00

The topic of my senior project powerpoint is whether or not elementary schools should offer foreign languages. I think it should be offered because young minds have the ability to absorb information better, it helps to learn another language later in life, and children are better able to mimick the pronunciations correctly.

TIME TO POST! 10 POINTS

2008-11-19T07:11:00.000-08:00

PLEASE POST YOUR TOPIC AND THREE-PART THESIS STATEMENT FOR YOUR SENIOR PROJECT POWER POINT. ALSO POST HOW YOUR TOPIC CONNECTS TO YOUR SENIOR PROJECT.

I want us to do this publicly, for a couple of reasons:

1. We can't have duplicate topics, so once your topic is posted and approved no one else can take it. By posting it, we can all see the topics as they are approved.

2. I will provide comments and guidance on your topic, and everyone can get a better sense of what the guidelines are if we can all read the feedback.

SO, YOU NEED TO INCLUDE THREE PARTS TO YOUR POST.

1. Your research topic (you MUST take a position).

Example: The U.S. should adopt a policy of universal health care.

2. Your three part thesis statement.

Example: The U.S. should adopt a universal health care policy because it would be less expensive; it would be more equitable for all people; and it would improve the overall quality of health care in the United States.

***You could also argue AGAINST universal health care and provide three reasons.

3. Explain the connection to your senior project.

DUE DATE FOR THIS POST IS MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24 BY 7:40 A.M.

HEROES WIN AGAIN!!

2008-11-17T19:47:00.000-08:00

IS THERE ANY STOPPING THEM?

Iguanas, you gave them a run for it this time, but Ashley, Colten, and Tyler came on strong in the end. 5 bonus points to all heroes. Iguanas, better luck next time.

TEAM COMPETITION FOR EXTRA CREDIT

2008-11-14T12:59:00.000-08:00

WHO WILL WIN?

I know it's been awhile since we've done anything with our teams: the iguanas and the heroes, but in looking at the current grade book, I thought we could all use a little extra credit, SO......

Here's the competition:

INSTRUCTIONS: Provide the definition (please be thorough) of ONE of the following literary terms AND provide an example:

allusion, foreshadowing, hyperbole, cliche, metaphor, irony, imagery, personification, onomatopoeia, alliteration, genre, connotation, denotation, stream-of-consciousness, oxymoron, allegory, reversal

EXAMPLE: narrator: the voice of the person telling the story, not to be confused with the author's voice. Much of Animal Dreams is narrated by the main character, Codi. She narrates from first-person, limited point of view.

***The first team to have 6 DIFFERENT team members respond to a DIFFERENT TERM wins 5 extra credit points per team member. (REMEMBER: 5 points raises a timed writing by one letter grade). Team members MUST list their team name after their response or it doesn't count.

***RULE: once a term is used by a team member, no member of either team may use it again. This is so we don't have 12 people define hyperbole, giving the same definition and example. The idea is for everyone to define a different term.

***If you have forgotten which team you are on, check the archived posts. I posted it some time ago, and you can still find it on the blog.

LAUREN'S IN ORLANDO!

2008-11-12T07:55:00.000-08:00

Sorry about the picture, Lauren. If you email me an actual picture of you from this week, I'll use that instead. Until then, all we have is this cheesy movie poster.

As many of you already know, Lauren has been in Orlando all week competing in a Karate tournament.

She was supposed to compete starting Tuesday of this week, SO.....how is it going?

Any news you can post here, Lauren, would be most interesting to all of us. Hope things are going well and that you're having a great time!

SENIOR SCRAPBOOK REMINDERS

2008-11-10T10:53:00.000-08:00

The senior scrapbook is primarily a second semester project; however, several of you have asked a variety of questions about it, so I thought I would post some information here.

Some things you should know:

1. If you haven't already, go to my teacher web page (you can click on the Reitz Web page linked to this blog and get there from here) and print the three options for scrapbooks for AP students.

You can do 1) a regular scrapbook
2) a video scrapbook
3) a historical/cultural anthology

Make sure you read the descriptions for each project.

2. Sometime in January, you will be required to have your actual book. You should start thinking now about whether you'd like to use a photo album or a traditional scrapbook. For video projects, you'll need to see me about what to have in January.

3. Your friday essays are actually your scrapbook writings, so you are working on that part of the assignment already. Make sure you save all of your friday essays. You'll need to revise and print clean copies of all writings for the book.

4. Any other questions? Post them here.

SENIOR PROJECT REMINDERS

2008-11-09T21:23:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos I took at Tamara's senior project on Saturday. Things seemed really organized and everyone there was having a lot of fun.

Just a couple of reminders for your own senior project:

1. Take lots and lots of pictures. You'll need them for your presentation in February.

2. Refer to the handbook I passed out at the beginning of the school year and/or the senior project website. Make sure you are logging your hours and looking over the other items you are supposed to be filling in as you go.

3. If you haven't started organizing your project, now is the time. You must have everything completed by January.

4. Any questions???? Post them here.

TAMARA'S SENIOR PROJECT

2008-11-07T10:28:00.000-08:00

Tamara's senior project is this Saturday at the Barker Complex. It begins at 11 a.m. She's doing a mother/daughter softball tournament to support breast cancer research.

Anyone who is free, should stop by to support her and her very important cause.

FRIDAY ESSAY DUE: WHO IS YOUR HERO AND WHY?

2008-11-05T11:54:00.000-08:00

Don't forget that you have your "hero" essay due this Friday.....Remember that handout I gave you a few weeks ago?

You may write about a family member, famous person, or anyone else that inspires you to achieve more, appreciate life, etc.

Please type the essay in MLA format and PROOFREAD!!!!!!! The essay must be a MINIMUM OF ONE PAGE in length. I will evaluate you on content, grammar, mechanics, and proofreading ability.

If you have any questions, post them here as usual.

ELECTION DAY!!!!

2008-11-04T06:35:00.001-08:00

This is a very important day for our country. If you are 18, please vote! It is your patriotic duty as an American.

I know that you are a responsible group of young people, and you represent your generation well. Today is an important day to live up to the ethics and patriotism that I have seen in all of you.

If you haven't already, you must go to the polls and cast your ballot!

ASHLEY'S SENIOR PROJECT

2008-11-02T17:11:00.000-08:00

I hope the health fair went well. I, and my girls had planned to come; however, Kate and I were struck with a stomach virus that had us on the couch most of the weekend. I am starting to feel a little better this evening, so fear not everyone.......The literary terms will still be presented Monday.

Anyway.....I hope you had a good turnout, and I'm sorry I missed it. Did anyone else from class attend?

LITERARY TERMS PRESENTATIONS......POST YOUR QUESTIONS HERE!

2008-11-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

Remember that tomorrow everyone will present ONE of the their literary terms. Please refer to the handout I gave you several weeks ago for the directions and rubric that details how you will be graded.

**You must include a VISUAL AID (power point, movie clip, poster with VERY LARGE TYPE).

**You must provide a handout for the entire class (17 students plus me).

**You must involve the class in an activity that helps teach the term.

**You must stay within the time limit.

PLEASE POST ANY QUESTIONS YOU HAVE ABOUT THE ASSIGNMENT HERE. I'LL TRY TO CHECK IN MULTIPLE TIMES TODAY SO I CAN ANSWER YOU. (KEEP IN MIND THAT I'M OLD AND GO TO BED AT A REASONABLE HOUR....OR TRY TO AT LEAST......THE EARLIER YOU CAN POST YOUR QUESTIONS, THE BETTER).

RESEARCH PAPER TURN-IN

2008-10-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

Research papers due tomorrow. Here is how you should turn it in.

1. Put the final paper (with the works cited page) in the RIGHT HAND pocket of a two-pocket folder.

2. Put all notes, outline, and draft in the LEFT HAND pocket.

3. ON TOP of the notes, outlines, etc., put all of your sources (photocopies or printouts) in the LEFT HAND pocket.

4. Be sure to HIGHLIGHT ALL USED MATERIAL!

Yeah!!!! You're finished!!!!!

TIME TO POST!

2008-10-28T10:31:00.000-07:00

It's time for required post #3 DUE BY THURSDAY AT 7:40. Please reflect on today's discussion over "Popular Mechanics" and "Soldier's Home."

QUESTIONS
1. Who made you think during today's discussion? What did they say that either changed your reading/interpretation of the stories, OR what did they say that you had not previously considered?

2. What additional comments or observations do you have about the stories?

**AS IN CLASS REFLECTION, PLEASE TRY NOT TO SIMPLY REPEAT WHAT OTHERS HAVE ALREADY POSTED. If someone posts what you also had for reflection, try to add something original or look at a different aspect of the story or discussion. It's ok to agree with what has already been posted, but YOU MUST ADD YOUR OWN ORIGINAL ideas as well.

**ALSO, PLEASE CONSIDER RESPONDING TO THE POSTS OF OTHERS IN YOUR REFLECTION. YOU MAY POST MORE THAN ONCE IF SOMEONE SAYS SOMETHING TO WHICH YOU'D LIKE TO RESPOND.

SEMINAR TOMORROW!

2008-10-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

We'll begin class tomorrow with a seminar over the short stories "Popular Mechanics" and "Soldier's Home."

Please come to class with at least one full page of annotations/ notes over the stories. You should all plan to participate in the discussion, and it should be clear that you have read the stories.

As you read, pay attention to the following:

1. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: before each story, your anthology usually includes information about the author and the story itself. This info can be really important in understanding underlying concepts and themes in the writing.

2. TIME PERIOD: often, the year of publication is included at the beginning of the work. Again, this will affect how you read the story.

3. LITERARY DEVICES: what elements of literature are used, and how does it affect the story?

4. QUESTIONS AT THE END: read the questions at the end of the story, and see if they change your ideas or enhance your understanding of the story.

As usual, I will take a grade on the seminar. Please come prepared!!!!

THE HALLOWEEN ANGELS SAY "SIGN UP FOR LITERARY TERMS!"

2008-10-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

If you don't sign up for literary terms by Tuesday's class, you will have them assigned to you. Please choose your own on the post below ASAP.

Also, a shout out to Rachel, Sarah, Shawn, and Lauren who are cutting the Act I script. They appeared in my room during enrichment Friday and were hard at work pulling three minutes of text out of 40 minutes of Shakespeare. Way to get going right away on a challenging project. "Hooray for you!" as Meg, my 2-year-old would say.

As for the photo.....we obviously went to a Halloween party this weekend. What are you all planning to be????? Or have you left your trick-or-treating days behind?

SIGN UP NOW if you haven't already....the list of available terms is below.

LITERARY TERMS SIGNUP

2008-10-22T11:36:00.000-07:00

It's getting more difficult to figure out what's been taken, so let's continue posting here instead of the previous posting site.

HERE'S WHAT'S LEFT:

plot
setting
allusion
resolution
stream-of-consciousness
character
theme
tone
allegory
ambiguity
colloquialism
convention
denouement
epiphany
narrator
paradox
reversal
suspense

HEROES RULE!

2008-10-22T04:42:00.000-07:00

Heroes, you look so fierce in your masks! Great job on winning the first competition by a landslide. You are all good sports.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 20

2008-10-20T10:20:00.000-07:00

Think about which act of Hamlet you would like to cut. Also decide with whom you would like to work. On Wednesday, you will need to choose an act and a group.

Act I needs 4 people

Act II needs 3

Act III needs 3

Act IV needs 3

Act V needs 4

Also, Mr. Hughes is coming to class on Wednesday to talk with you about what is involved with the music and set design should you choose not to perform.

We probably need AT LEAST 6 of you to perform (some of the parts are small). Everyone else can choose music or set design. If those choices don't appeal to you, we might be able to come up with something else; for the most part though it's either performing, music, or sets.

This is going to be a VERY neat project that will be seen be a variety of audiences, depending on how we put it together. Also, you will know the play EXTREMELY well by the time we finish, so that's always a good thing. Think about how you'd like to contribute.

Also, please sign up for your literary terms on the post below!

LITERARY TERMS

2008-10-17T06:11:00.001-07:00

If you want to stake your claim on your literary terms for presentations, go ahead and post yours here. That way, everyone knows what's been taken.

Ashley has point of view and irony. Everything else is still open.

Where are my poll questions??? I know you all have it in you.

NEW POLL QUESTION (S)

2008-10-16T10:38:00.000-07:00

I need some good poll question ideas.

My well of creativity has run dry, metaphorically speaking (see the image above for a visual).

Several of you have said you like the surveys, so here's your chance for input.

Colten already promised to come up with at least one. How about the rest of you???

ON TO GRADING PERIOD #2

2008-10-15T09:09:00.000-07:00

(The horse is in honor of Kaity's "This I Believe" essay, offered as a distraction from her bad start to this morning!)

What a strange week this has been.......PSAT, Chinese Acrobats, recording essays, short classes! Well, we made it anyway and got our essays recorded and research drafts turned in, so all is well.

PLEASE COME GET YOUR GRADE SHEETS IF YOU HAVE TIME. I have printed them, and you may want to check yours over to make sure everything looks as you think it should.

On Monday, we WILL TAKE THE HEROES' PICTURE!!! We will do it first thing, so we don't get caught up with something else. Also, we will continue with Shakespeare and begin Hamlet. Think about your groups of 3 or 4 that you'd like to work with for cutting Acts I-V. On Monday, we will also discuss research papers and common problems, etc. PAPERS DUE ON FRIDAY of next week.

Also, you may sign up for literary terms anytime. Email me if you know what you want. First come, first serve.

FOR WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15

2008-10-14T13:32:00.000-07:00

Short on time today, so this will be a quick post. Here's what you need for tomorrow:

1. revised outlines

2. complete revised rough draft of research paper, INCLUDING a works cited page (I must have this to make sure you are doing this correctly).

ESSAY RECORDINGS TOMORROW!

2008-10-13T12:33:00.000-07:00

I hope you have all practiced reading your essays slowly and clearly for tomorrow's recording. The ICATS are bringing 5 or 6 laptops, so we'll have 5-6 of you recording at a time, while others work in the library on research.

Please bring a flash drive or other such device for saving work. After I go over outlines with you, some of you will want and need to make changes to both your outlines and your drafts.

HEROES....WE'LL TAKE YOUR PHOTO TOMORROW. PLAN TO LOOK HEROIC!

CITING SOURCES

2008-10-08T12:27:00.000-07:00

I have added a link to a very helpful page that addresses citations for MLA format (scroll down to "Helpful Links"). The topic that you'll get when you click on it is "in-text citations"; however, if you scroll to the bottom you'll see links to all the MLA Format subjects. As much as I hated to link you to a Purdue site, this one is good. See you tomorrow.

TIME TO POST

2008-10-07T11:57:00.000-07:00

It's time for another REQUIRED POST. Please respond to the following questions by TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14 by 7:40 A.M.

1. What novel are you reading for the research paper, and who is the author?

2. How interesting and engaging have you found the novel; basically, was it a good choice for you?

3. What are you finding most difficult with your research right now?

4. What can I do to help you?

5. What should you do to better help yourself?

I HOPE YOU ALL HAD A PRODUCTIVE DAY TODAY. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, OR NEED ME TO LOOK AT ANYTHING RESEARCH RELATED, STOP BY TOMORROW WHEN YOU HAVE TIME. WE WILL TALK ABOUT IN-TEXT CITATIONS AND WORKS CITED PAGES ON THURSDAY.

ALSO, WE STILL HAVE SOME "THIS I BELIEVE" ESSAYS TO READ ON THURSDAY!

HEROES, WE NEED TO TAKE YOUR WINNING PHOTO.

OUTLINE

2008-10-06T19:06:00.000-07:00

Your typed outline should be a total of 18-22 COMPLETE SENTENCES. You should follow the template of the outline worksheet I gave you in class.

REMEMBER.....EVERYTHING IN COMPLETE SENTENCES. Begin the outline with your thesis statement (as shown on the worksheet), and go from there.

TUESDAY'S CLASS

2008-10-06T13:02:00.001-07:00

Ok, guys. Thanks to a plea from Rachel, I will let you turn in the typed outline on Thursday. You should then have a THREE PAGE DRAFT for the following Tuesday, since you are getting extra time.

I am about to leave school to run my children to various lessons and activities, and I won't be back at a computer until after 8 p.m. I will update the blog tonight regarding tomorrow's class.

So, the important thing for you to know is that you WILL be in the library tomorrow during the first half of class. You WILL be expected to spend the class period on research. You WON'T need to turn in the typed outline until Thursday. I hope this is good news to you. If so, you owe Rachel.

More later....

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3

2008-10-03T12:04:00.000-07:00

I've gone over and graded thesis statements for all who turned one in on Friday. If you'd like me to go over it with you, stop by when you have time. It will probably make your work time on Tuesday more productive.

NEED FEEDBACK ON YOUR THESIS STATEMENT? STOP BY ROOM 350!

2008-10-03T08:02:00.001-07:00

The smiley face is in honor of Alyssa's "This I Believe" essay. It's also for you to look at in case you feel cranky about the research paper. If you keep up with your reading and writing assignments, we will work together on organizing your paper. Just try your best and think positively!!! There will be much more opportunity for guidance on your paper.

This brings me to THESIS STATEMENTS: I am in the process of going through each of your thesis statements, and in some cases going ahead and starting an outline for you as well. I have tried to write enough comments and suggestions to help get you to the next step, especially since I won't see you until Thursday.

Please stop by when you get time to talk about your thesis statement. I have some of them finished now, and I should have all of them finished by Monday. If you don't get a chance to come by the room, I'll leave your graded thesis statement in your mailbox in the back of the room (in the crate labeled "1").

THIS I BELIEVE ESSAYS

Great job on the essays we read today. I can't believe I forgot about the pep assembly!!!!! Sorry to those of you who didn't get to read yours. We'll look forward to hearing from you on Thursday.

I enjoyed all of the essays......I especially loved Lauren's analogy comparing the isolation at the lunch table to the social structure of life.

I also loved Sara F.'s belief statement that everyone is an artist. I don't think of myself that way, but her essay made me start thinking about different areas of my own life that really do require the "artist" in me.

Also, Alyssa's essay about the importance of smiling was about a simple concept, but the essay points out how much good it can do for someone to be the recipient of a smile; it represents so much more than what it seems on the surface. I'm not sure any of us spend as much time smiling as we could or should.

I enjoyed every essay read today. They were all creative and definitely unique. Round 2 on Thursday!

DON'T FORGET TO RESPOND TO THE FIVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE BLOG IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY!!! THIS MUST BE DONE BY MONDAY, OCTOBER 6.

HEROES WIN!

2008-10-01T07:34:00.001-07:00

Great Job to the fast-posting Heroes! We will have to take a lovely blog photo next week to break up the monotony of research. While the Heroes may not be gregarious talkers, you've proven yourselves to be formidable posters. Good teamwork.

IGUANAS???? WHAT HAPPENED? I KNOW YOU KNEW THE ANSWERS!! In your defense, however, your discussion of the "This I Believe" essays was very insightful. I liked Max's comment about the 16-year-old who managed to include positive historical events to balance out the negative. Also, Tamara's comment connecting the author who believed in poetry to her own experiences was good. As a group, you had a very nice mini-discussion.

As for today's class.....I really enjoyed reading your essay drafts. Your belief statements were all very different and creative. Remember that these are PERSONAL essays, so by definition you are including personal information. Don't completely leave that part out or the essay won't be as effective. Overall, though, nice job on these. I can't wait to hear them on Friday.

PLEASE REVIEW THE GUIDELINES FOR THESE ESSAYS (DOWN A COUPLE OF POSTS).

Keep reading those research novels. We'll talk about sources on Friday.

IF YOU HAVE NOT YET RESPONDED TO THE BLOG POST ASSIGNMENT (SEE LAST WEEK'S POST WITH MY PHOTO), YOU MUST DO THIS BY OCTOBER 6!

CLASS TEAMS! FIRST COMPETITION!

2008-09-29T07:22:00.000-07:00

Ok, here are the teams.......

THE ORANGE IGUANAS
Tyler T
Max
Tamara
Coleigh
Rachel
Lauren
Kirstie
Ben

HARL'S HEROES
Alyssa
Kaity
Sara
Colten
Sarah
Shawn
Ashley
Tyler V.
Wes

HERE'S THE COMPETITION.......

The first team that has 5 separate representatives answer the following questions correctly gets a picture on the blog of their team with the caption ORANGE IGUANA'S RULE! or HARL'S HEROES RULE!

Questions for the IGUANAS:

1. Who is the author of Brave New World? (first and last name)
2. What is the definition of figurative language?
3. Where should the thesis statement go in a timed writing for Mrs. Harl's class?
4. What is the setting (time and place) for 1984?
5. Barbara Kingsolver's educational degrees were in what subjects (hint: it's on the podcast)?

Questions for the HEROES

1. Who is the author of 1984?
2. What is the definition of alliteration?
3. What two pieces of information should the opening sentence of a timed writing for Mrs, Harl's class include?
4. What is the setting for Brave New World (time and place)?
5. What are two of the main symbols used in animal dreams (hint: it's on the podcast)?

**YOUR ANSWER MUST BE CORRECT AND YOU MUST LIST YOUR TEAM NAME OR YOUR ANSWER DOESN'T COUNT!

TIMED WRITING MONDAY

2008-09-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

As you prepare for Monday's timed writing, be sure to do the following:

1. Decide on a thesis statement. MAKE SURE ALL THREE POINTS ARE ARGUABLE, NOT FACTUAL. On a scratch piece of paper, WRITE IT OUT.

2. Write down at least 3 specific examples to support each thesis point.

3. Write down one or two significant themes from the novel. (Hint: think about the author's overall message)

4. Connect the examples to the overall theme, showing how your thesis is SIGNIFICANT TO THE NOVEL AS A WHOLE!

5. Give yourself 40 minutes and do a practice timed writing (one that you will bring with you to class). Try not to peek at your notes if possible.

6. Go back to my TEN TIMED WRITING TIPS post from August and review my advice.

7. Edit your draft.

**You should now be prepared for your 50 point timed writing tomorrow.

TIME TO POST!

2008-09-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

Every time you see my smiling face with the "Time to Post!" heading, you'll know it's time for another blog post assignment. Your first posting assignment is the following: (due by Monday, Oct 6).

Answer the following questions:

1. How would you improve this blog to make it more useful to you?
2. What elements do you like and why?
3. How could this blog be used to enhance class?
4. In what ways can you contribute to the blog?
5. What could I add or remove to make this blog more useful?

Happy Posting! BONUS POINTS GO TO THE FIRST 3 PEOPLE THAT POST!

GUIDELINES FOR THIS I BELIEVE ESSAYS

2008-09-24T07:51:00.000-07:00

BELOW IS A REMINDER ABOUT GUIDELINES FOR YOUR "THIS I BELIEVE" ESSAYS

This I Believe Essay-Writing Instructions

We invite you to contribute to this project by writing and submitting your own statement of personal belief. We understand how challenging this is—it requires such intimacy that no one else can do it for you. To guide you through this process, we offer these suggestions:

TELL A STORY: Be specific. Take your belief out of the ether and ground it in the events of your life. Consider moments when belief was formed or tested or changed. Think of your own experience, work, and family, and tell of the things you know that no one else does. Your story need not be heart-warming or gut-wrenching—it can even be funny—but it should be real. Make sure your story ties to the essence of your daily life philosophy and the shaping of your beliefs.

BE BRIEF: Your statement should be between 350 and 500 words. That's about three minutes when read aloud at your natural pace.

NAME YOUR BELIEF: If you can't name it in a sentence or two, your essay might not be about belief. Also, rather than writing a list, consider focusing on one core belief, because three minutes is a very short time.

BE POSITIVE: Please avoid preaching or editorializing. Tell us what you do believe, not what you don't believe. Avoid speaking in the editorial "we." Make your essay about you; speak in the first person.

BE PERSONAL: Write in words and phrases that are comfortable for you to speak. We recommend you read your essay aloud to yourself several times, and each time edit it and simplify it until you find the words, tone, and story that truly echo your belief and the way you speak.

THINKING ABOUT RESEARCH

2008-09-21T14:31:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, be sure to investigate novels for your upcoming research paper. You should have your novel in class on Tuesday.

Also, go to the "This I Believe" website (you can find it under "Helpful Links" on this blog), listen to an essay, and fill out the worksheet I gave you on Friday.

FOR TOMORROW, FRIDAY SEPT. 19

2008-09-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

1. BRING CAP APPLICATION AND TRANSCRIPT RELEASE
2. STUDY FOR BNW EXAM
3. NAME RESEARCH ESSAY DUE
4. STATEMENT OF BELIEF DUE (ONE SENTENCE)

As for today's discussion......some of you did a very nice job of offering opinions, adding insight, and asking questions. However, it is difficult to have a discussion that really makes us think, when only a third of the group are actively participating. I got the impression that a few of you perhaps hadn't finished the book. This makes it difficult to discuss, of course.

Remember, it is EVERYONE'S responsibility to add to our discussion. If we're not actively discussing, then I'm just standing in the front of the room telling everyone what to think and what they should know. Hmmm... that sounds a lot like the societies in 1984 and Brave New World!!

See you tomorrow. Think about what you believe.

BRAVE NEW WORLD EXAM

2008-09-17T06:47:00.001-07:00

Can you answer the following exam questions?

1. 70% of female embryos are treated to become freemartins, ensuring that they are ____________________.

2. The Director states that the secret of happiness and virtue is........

3. Sleep teaching is NOT used for ____________________ education but for _____________________ education.

4. Who taught John to read?

5. The controller tells John that the chief reason Shakespeare is prohibited is because.......

Who is the speaker for the following quotes?

1. "Well, the next day there was a search. But we couldn't find her. She must have fallen into a gully somewhere; or been eaten by a mountain lion. Ford knows. Anyhow, it was horrible. It upset me very much at the time. More than it ought to have done."

2. "Oh my dear, my dear. If you knew how glad--after all these years! A civilized face. Yes and civilized clothes. Because I thought I should never see a piece of real acetate silk again."

3. "Most of our girls are freemartins, of course, I'm a freemartin myself. But we have about eight hundred unsterilized ones who need constant drilling."

4. "Well, I'd rather be unhappy than have the sort of false, lying happiness you were having here."

5. "Happiness has got to be paid for. You're paying for it, Mr. Watson--paying because you happen to be too much interested in beauty. I was too much interested in truth; I paid too."

It's a 50 question test. You've now seen 20% of it here. Also, our discussion Thursday will be worth 20 points (almost half your test grade), so come prepared to ask questions, state opinions, discuss themes, and most importantly make each other think!

CAP APPLICATIONS DUE THURSDAY

2008-09-16T07:11:00.001-07:00

Please bring your CAP applications to class on Thursday, Sept 18!

BRAVE NEW WORLD

2008-09-14T14:56:00.001-07:00

Remember that we will discuss the novel on Thursday of this week with the exam on Friday. As you read, make a list of similarities and differences between Huxley's novel and 1984. This will be one of the items for discussion on Thursday. While there are several obvious thematic similarities, the authors use very different details and plot devices to present their messages.

Here are some terms from the novel you should be familiar with. Can you explain their meanings within the context of the novel?

1. Bokanovsky group
2. Decanting room
3. Ford (what's the significance?)
4. Hypnopaedia
5. Malthusian belt
6. Nine Years' War
7. Podsnap's technique
8. Savage Reservation
9. Solidarity service
10. Pneumatic

Also, see "helpful links" below for some websites that might help your navigation of this novel.

SEE POST ABOUT SENIOR PROJECTS BELOW!!!

2008-09-10T11:28:00.000-07:00

I have purposely not posted anything new because I want you all to review the previous post regarding proposals. Please follow the directions below for submitting proposals.

If you were asked to make changes during your proposal session, be sure to submit those by Monday morning AT THE LATEST. Remember, you need to use the format provided on the Senior Project Web Page.

Email with any questions.

Good luck!

THINGS TO DO

2008-09-03T19:19:00.000-07:00

Remember that your dossier is due this Friday. Also remember that you must include a picture of yourself somewhere on the page.

Senior Project proposals are next week, so be sure to go to the Senior Project website. You can access it from my teacher webpage under "Links" OR more simply click on the Senior Project link under "helpful links" on this blog.

Once on the Senior Project site, click "Portfolio." There you will find the proposal template upon which you can type.

Be sure to complete ALL sections of the proposal, including the section that requires mentor and parent signatures.

Another imporant aspect of the proposal is the research section. You need to take a position on an issue that a reasonable person could argue. For example "Smoking is bad for your health" is not a position that invites a reasonable alternative argument.

Bring me your drafts on Friday (or even Monday) if you want some help. Don't forget to bring THREE COPIES on proposal day.

Good luck! Let me know if you need some help or feedback.

ANIMAL DREAMS TEST PREP III

2008-08-28T16:22:00.000-07:00

By now, I hope you have reviewed your notes and taken time to at least view the podcast once. (As I said in class, you can listen to it on many of the computers in the school library). I took several test questions directly from the podcast, so it's worth a second listen if you have time.

Here are some of the quotes you will see on the exam. Can you identify the speaker?

"Mom says she'll break your face if you don't come over for breakfast."

"I told you I want Apodaca's line and not any of the others. I want gaffers. I'm not interested in knife birds."

"Oh, I know Doc's glad to have you back. He's been poorly. I don't expect he'd tell you but he is. They said when you was overseas you learned the cure they used on that actress in Paris, France. Bless your heart, you're a dear child. You don't remember me do you?"

"I know you're worrying, but you don't have to since we've established that I'm the luckiest person alive."

"If you want sweet dreams, you've got to live a sweet life."

ANIMAL DREAMS TEST PREP PART II

2008-08-27T19:32:00.001-07:00

Our initial A.D. discussion got off to a slow start; then, once in small groups, the ideas took off. There were a lot of very insightful and original comments in your groups which carried over when we got back into a large group.

Something we, as a class, need to consider is that in order to have really productive discussions, everyone needs to feel free to express ideas in a safe and encouraging environment. We need to make an effort to encourage each other to participate. Also, we need to be quick to acknowledge classmates when they come up with thought-provoking, insightful, or interesting ideas. A little encouragement and positive reinforcement goes a long way to creating a trusting, safe, positive classroom enviroment for discussion. Thoughtful discussion is SO important for us to challenge ourselves as thinkers.

Some examples of encouragment include the following:
"That's an interesting idea."
"I like what Jenny said earlier about....."
"John made a good point about...."

Now.....on to the test. Here are a few more questions you will see on Friday's exam.

1. What does Codi mean when she says "Grace is a memory minefield."
2. Doc Homer said, "The seat of human emotion should be the _________________. We don't hold love in our hearts. We hold it in our _________________."
3. What item does Codi choose to honor and remember Hallie?
4. Who takes Codi to the place where her mother had left in the helicopter?
5. What is Loyd's hobby?

I'll post some more on Thursday.

Also, if anyone would like a Brave New World book before Friday, you are welcome to pick one up in room 350 at any time.

ANIMAL DREAMS TEST

2008-08-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

I think of Jack, the coyote-dog, when I look at this picture.

Here's a sneak peak at a few of Friday's test questions. Do you know the answers?

1. Why does Codi feel embarrased for yelling at the children to "stop killing that bird" ?
2. Why does Codi say she went to medical school?
3. How did Codi's mother die?
4. Who is John Tucker?
5. What does Codi say is one of her biggest fears?

SCHOLARSHIP ESSAYS

2008-08-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

I've finished your essays about what it means to be a scholar. Here are some of my favorite lines. I've kept it to just a few, though I could have included many more.

"I think being a scholar is not only being knowledgeable, but also putting forth the effort and having the desire to learn."

"One quality I think is important to be considered a scholar is to challenge yourself."

"Scholars have to be well-rounded as people."

"A scholar is someone who works hard and never gives up."

"This might just be the resultant debris from the collision between my cynicism and popular idealism, but I do not believe that every person can do anything even when they do everything in their power to achieve it."

"....if a person's car gets bad mileage, he or she will need a good amount of fuel to reach Scholarville. The luckier ones, though, can travel at light speed the entire way and scarcely ever stop for a refill."

"I like to think that the best kind of scholar is a mixture: someone who is well educated but is also a believer that not everything can be answered by logic."

"Organization is the key to being successful at anything."

TEN TIMED WRITING TIPS

2008-08-19T19:39:00.000-07:00

As you prepare for Thursday's timed wrting, keep the following in mind:

1. Your opening sentence should include the name of the novel, the name of the author, and something of significance about the work (preferably related to the focus of your essay).

2. Make sure your thesis statement has 2-3 clear, debatable parts. Each part of the thesis must be something that can be argued rather than a fact. For example, if part of your thesis states that Winston has a relationship with Julia, there's not much more you can say about that. You would need to argue that Winston's relationship with Julia demonstrates a major theme in the novel (and then, of course, mention WHAT THAT THEME IS).

Also, try to avoid a convoluted, overly wordy thesis. You don't want your reader (ME) to have to read it over and over again trying to figure out what you mean.

3. Avoid figurative language, unless quoting from the novel. EXAMPLE of language to AVOID: " Winston is on cloud 9 when he is able to read a copy of Goldstein's book."

4. Use active voice rather than passive voice. EXAMPLE: "O'Brien invites Winston to his house" is better than "Winston is invited to O'Brien's house."

5. Set a goal of including 7-9 specific examples from the novel in your essay.

6. Don't repeat yourself to fill space.

7. Watch your time. I'll give you an end time at the beginning of the writing, and you need to make sure you don't run out of time before your conclusion.

8. DO NOT BEGIN YOUR CONCLUSION BY WRITING "IN CONCLUSION"!!!! Just jump right in by making an overall statement about the topics you've covered in the essay.

9. Write as legibly as possible. Keep in mind that if I can't read your handwriting, I can't give you the credit you may deserve.

10. HAVE FUN!!! Ok, just kidding. But seriously.....writing a solid essay with thoughtful examples and academic/ scholarly vocabulary can be very satisfying, especially when you start to get better and better at it. See this as the beginning of our journey to becoming master essay writers.

***DON'T FORGET TO BRING A COMPLETED TIMED WRITING DRAFT FOR SUBMISSION TO ME BEFORE YOU SIT FOR THE WRITING IN CLASS. THIS SHOULD BE SEPARATE FROM THE JOURNAL YOU DID IN CLASS.